Reply To: Possibly stupid protection

Hey Ash,no offence mate but i think you need to see an instructor.I saw this happening at willys about 2 months ago and i must say i was quite horrified and for several reasons.Ethics being the first.In no way does clipping knots on a fixed line equate to a lead ascent.rule of thumb…if you are not prepared to take the drop then dont try to lead the climb.if you dont have enough gear or confidence,come back when you have.i am glad someone mentioned top belay.I am a guide in margaret river and work at willys 100+ days per year and climb there alot to.I could not count the amount of times I have seen people running their top rope(yoyo style)over the cliff edge because they didnt have enough static.What are they thinking?Always keep top belay in mind if top roping on taller cliffs.Safety is the other biggie.If I were to do this I would tie a fig8 in the end and alpines above and use adequate edge protection.but would treat it a bit like clipping dodgy carrots.It could be exciting!I really had to bite my tongue when i saw this happening at willys the other month.It is definately not cool and has potential to become commonplace.